Dangers of Vascular Surgery

Claim Compensation for Vascular Injury

Surgical errors can have far-reaching consequences and there are dangers of vascular surgery which pose potential complications. Vascular surgery is aimed at treating conditions which affect the blood vessels. This would include arteries, veins and lymph vessels (tubes through the body to lymph nodes and back to veins).

Vascular surgery is a specialist surgery for diseases affecting arteries and veins. Surgery risks include haemorrhage, damage to blood vessels, blockage of arteries or grafts, heart attack, injuries to peripheral nerves and those affecting the blood supply, among others. Surgical errors can result in a medical negligence claim.

If you believe you may have a claim for compensation, Jefferies Claims may be able to assist. We work with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. 

Common Risks Of Vascular Surgery

Bleeding and Haemorrhage
One of the most common risks of vascular surgery is bleeding. This can occur during or after the procedure, especially if blood vessels are inadvertently damaged. In severe cases, haemorrhaging can be life-threatening.

Infection
Infections can occur at the surgical site, especially if proper sterilisation techniques aren’t followed. Symptoms of an infection include redness, warmth, swelling and discharge at the incision site. Severe infections may lead to fever, chills, and sepsis and requires immediate medical intervention.

Blood Clots and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Blood clots can form in the legs or lungs after vascular surgery. This condition is known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE). These clots can be life-threatening if they travel to the lungs, heart, or brain. Common signs of DVT include leg pain, swelling, redness, and warmth.

Nerve Damage
During vascular surgery, nerves near the surgical site can be damaged, leading to numbness, tingling, or even paralysis in severe cases. While, this is often a temporary side effect, nerve damage can be permanent in some cases.

Organ Damage
In some cases, vascular surgery can inadvertently damage surrounding organs, such as the kidneys, lungs, or intestines. Symptoms of organ damage may include severe pain, difficulty breathing, and gastrointestinal issues.

Allergic Reactions and Anaesthesia Complications
Anaesthesia-related complications, including allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and cardiovascular instability, can occur during vascular surgery. Patients should inform the medical team about any known allergies or previous adverse reactions to anaesthesia to reduce these risks.

Post-Operative Red Flags

After vascular surgery, recognising early warning signs of complications is crucial for recovery and avoiding serious health issues. You should be aware of the following symptoms which highlight the dangers of vascular surgery:

1. Severe Pain and Swelling
   While mild discomfort is normal after surgery, severe pain or swelling at the surgical site could indicate an infection, hematoma, or blood clot. If pain is not relieved by prescribed painkillers or if swelling worsens, medical attention is necessary.
2. Fever and Chills
   A high fever or chills can indicate an infection or sepsis, which requires immediate medical care. It is essential to monitor body temperature regularly during the initial recovery phase.
3. Redness, Warmth, or Discharge at the Incision Site
   These symptoms are typical signs of an infection. Pus or foul-smelling discharge from the wound requires prompt medical evaluation and antibiotic treatment.
4. Shortness of Breath or Chest Pain
   These could be symptoms of a pulmonary embolism, a life-threatening complication of blood clots. Immediate medical intervention is crucial if these symptoms occur.
5. Numbness or Tingling
   Persistent numbness or tingling around the surgical area could indicate nerve damage or impaired blood flow. Consult a healthcare provider if these sensations do not improve over time.
6. Changes in Limb Colour or Temperature
   Pale, blue, or cold limbs can signify poor blood circulation or vascular blockage. This requires urgent medical assessment to prevent tissue damage or loss of limb function.

 Steps To Filing a Medical Negligence Claim

If you or a loved one has suffered due to surgical error during vascular surgery, you may be able to claim compensation. However, if you are currently experiencing complications, your top priority is to seek immediate medical attention.

To support a claim, you will need to obtain surgery reports, post-operative notes, scans, prescriptions and photographs of the surgical site. It is also worthwhile to get an independent medical assessment.

The friendly team at Jefferies Claims can guide you through a potential claim. We work with highly experienced lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.  Call us today at 0333 358 3034 or visit Jefferies Claims Contact Page to discuss your potential claim.